Erattupetta (Kottayam): Erattupetta Ayyappan, a beloved tusker admired by elephant enthusiasts, died on Tuesday morning after months of illness. He had been undergoing treatment for various ailments for the past four months.

The elephant was acquired from Kodanavattom in December 1977, when it was five years old. The Paravanparambil (St. George) family purchased him directly from the Kodanad elephant enclosure, and he remained in their care for nearly 50 years.

Ayyappan had collapsed at events in Kollam, Thrissur and Cherthala about four months ago. His condition later deteriorated to the point where he could not stand without assistance.

Over the decades, he took part in temple festivals across Kottayam, Ernakulam and Alappuzha districts, including the renowned Thrissur Pooram. Known for his gentle nature, Ayyappan earned wide recognition and was honoured with titles such as 'Airavathasaman Gajarajan', 'Gajaratnam Gajothaman', 'Kalabhakesari 'and 'Travancore Gajasreshthan'.